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Video Capsule Endoscopy Prep

Video Capsule Endoscopy Prep Explained

Capsule endoscopy is a test that uses a swallowable video capsule to take images of the small intestine as it moves naturally through the digestive tract. The study does not require sedation or a traditional scope, and proper preparation helps ensure clear images and accurate results.

Important Things to Know

  • If you answer yes to the following questions, a nurse will reach out to you prior to procedure.
    • Do you have trouble swallowing?
    • Do you have a pacemaker, internal defibrillator, or other implanted medical device?
    • Do you have an allergy or skin sensitivity to adhesive or medical tape?
    • Are you taking an oral iron supplement?
    • Plan on being at the Boise Center for a 30 minute appointment. You will return the device by 4pm or next day business day.

Timing & Schedule

Preparation follows a short, structured timeline leading up to the day of your test. You’ll make medication and diet adjustments in advance, fast before swallowing the capsule, and gradually resume normal intake afterward. Detailed instructions and exact timing are provided below.

Instructions:
Step 1.
5 Days Before Your Procedure
  • Stop taking oral iron supplements.
Step 2.
Day Before Your Procedure
  • You may eat a normal breakfast completed by 10 AM followed by a clear liquid diet the rest of the day. Please do not eat any solid food after 10 AM.
  • Avoid red liquids. Some examples of clear liquids are apple juice, soda, coffee, tea, beef or chicken broth, Jell-O, Gatorade, or plain water.
  • Do not apply any lotion to your abdominal skin 24 hours before appointment time.
  • Nothing by mouth including water and medication after midnight, the night prior to your exam.
Step 3.
Day of Your Procedure
  • NOTHING BY MOUTH (LIQUID OR FOOD) AFTER MIDNIGHT
  • Do not apply lip balm or lipstick before appointment
  • Wear 2-piece loose-fitting clothing made of thin natural fabric (i.e., cotton T-shirt) No one-piece outfits, dresses, or belts. Please leave jewelry and necklaces at home.
  • You will be allowed to have water & medications 4 hours after ingesting capsule.
  • You may eat a regular lunch 6 hours after ingesting capsule
  • You may remove the monitor when the device indicates exam is complete or 8 hours after ingesting the pill cam.
Step 4.
After Swallowing the PillCam SB Capsule
  • Be sure the linked device remains securely attached to your abdomen. This may result in premature termination of the procedure.
  • Check the data recorder light every 15 minutes to be sure it is on. If it stops blinking, note the time and call the Endoscopy Center at (208) 342-7169.
  • Do not get the system wet, no bathing or sponge baths.
  • Avoid vigorous physical activity such as running, jumping, sweating or bending during the study.
  • Avoid being around MRI equipment, amateur (ham) radio, or other strong electromagnetic equipment until capsule is expelled, usually about 3 days. The capsule may be flushed down the toilet.
  • Normally, the capsule is expelled in the feces. It is safe to flush the capsule down the toilet. If you are concerned that you have not passed the capsule within 3-7 days or have symptoms of obstruction such as vomiting, please contact our office.
Step 5.
Late Afternoon
  • Return to IGA later in the day to have capsule equipment removed between 8 hours after ingesting. If 8 hours falls after 4pm, return next business day.
Take Aways
Additional Details
Medication:
  • Stop oral iron supplements 5 days before your procedure.
  • The night before and morning of the test, follow the “nothing by mouth after midnight” rule unless you have written instructions for essential medications.
  • You may have water and take medications 4 hours after swallowing the capsule—for example, around noon for a 7:15 a.m. start time.
  • Contact your Idaho Gastro team if you have questions about specific medications.
  • We cannot be responsible for your valuables (watches or various jewelry items). Please leave them at home.
  • Bring all insurance cards and a photo ID with you. Please check with your insurance company regarding prior authorization.
  • Fee for services is required at time of check-in. Please be prepared to make a payment.
  • IGA recognizes that your time is valuable, and so is ours. If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, please do so more than 48 business hours prior to your scheduled appointment arrival time at 208-343-6458. Late cancellations and no shows may be assessed a $200 fee.
This summary is based on Idaho Gastroenterology’s Video Capsule Endoscopy prep instructions and is for education only. Always follow the exact written instructions you receive for your specific capsule endoscopy date, and call the office if anything is unclear or your health changes before the test.

Supplies Needed

Clear liquids for the day before
Comfortable, two-piece cotton clothing

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